Forked tail. Single dorsal fin with 8 rays and no spines. Pelvic fin abdominal. No adipose fin. Anal fin with 7 rays and no spines.

Distinguishing Characteristics

The blacknose dace can be distinguished by its subterminal mouth with fleshy lips and inconspicuous barbels at the corners. Frenum connecting upper upper lip to snout. Compared to longnose dace, snout only slightly overhangs mouth and body is deeper, less elongated and more robust. 60-75 cycloid lateral line scales. About 52 scale rows around body. See also similar species information.

Breeding Adults

Males have small tubercles on head, scales, and pelvic fins. Reddish lateral stripe.

Juveniles

Similar to adults, but typically lateral stripe more pronounced, caudal spot present.

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